Commission staff reviewed the cemetery capital-improvement priorities and equipment replacement plan for the coming years, highlighting Autumn Garden mausoleum roof replacements, tuckpointing and year-by-year equipment renewal schedules.

Cemetery director Karen told the commission the Autumn Garden complex will need roof replacements across the four mausoleum buildings and caulking/tuckpointing around stonework; staff identified those as major projects for next year. Staff also proposed spreading the cost of four fleet golf carts by replacing one unit per year over four years so replacements do not hit the operating budget in a single year. Staff reported one cart currently does not work and said all purchases will be coordinated with the city garage fleet manager to ensure the city garage and cemetery crew needs are met.

The commission discussed a proposed pickup replacement and a concrete mixer replacement slated for 2028; members suggested checking for repurposing available city vehicles before purchasing new equipment. Staff said any new vehicle orders will follow review with the fleet manager.

Prairie Home Drive lighting (the main east–west road through the cemetery) is in the CIP for 2027: staff described decorative light poles (about six) and said one existing entrance pole is not working and will be replaced soon. Commissioners clarified the project may add decorative poles where no full street lighting currently exists; final decisions will follow engineering, CDOT or city right-of-way reviews if applicable.

On built projects, staff reported the Autumn Garden HVAC replacement and fountain repairs are complete and a water-loss plumbing repair was fixed earlier in the year. Staff said a tuckpointing pre-bid meeting is scheduled this week and the project could begin this winter or next spring. Security camera installation was described as forthcoming.

Veterans memorial plan: the Friends of Prairie Home Cemetery and Piala’s Nursery provided a planting and layout proposal to combine a flagpole, monument and the existing Eagle Scout arbor into a single reflection area in Section 8. The Friends have committed to raising funds (roughly $20,000 estimated) for plants and installation; commissioners discussed coordinating placement with the existing arbor and Scouts’ work. Staff said the Friends hope the project could be completed by Memorial Day next year, subject to fundraising and scheduling.

Ending: Staff and the Friends will continue design and fundraising work; commissioners asked to be updated on timing, bids, and any vehicle-repurposing opportunities before purchases are made.